Former Shameless actor Chris Coghill has joined the cast of EastEnders.
The 34-year-old, who appeared as the character of Craig in the Manchester-based comedy, will play Bianca Jackson's (Patsy Palmer) current partner Tony King and will quickly become embroiled in the East-End soap's recently-announced child sex abuse storyline.
Tony found himself behind bars after being convicted of ABH for attacking a youngster who took a shine to his 15-year-old step-daughter Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty). When he's released from prison, however, his intentions towards her are not all they seem and it becomes evident that he is sexually abusing her. It soon transpires that his maltreatment of her has been going on for some time.
Bianca, however, is oblivious to everything, while Whitney is forced to deal with her situation in silence.
Speaking of his role, Coghill said: "This is the most challenging role I have had to play. But I hope by EastEnders tackling the sensitive issue of child abuse it can raise awareness."
His other acting credits include Holby Blue, Doctors, Hotel Babylon and The Bill.
Earlier this year, Maggie O'Neill - known for her role as Sheila Jackson in Shameless - also joined the Walford-based soap as Branning sibling, Suzy.
The 34-year-old, who appeared as the character of Craig in the Manchester-based comedy, will play Bianca Jackson's (Patsy Palmer) current partner Tony King and will quickly become embroiled in the East-End soap's recently-announced child sex abuse storyline.
Tony found himself behind bars after being convicted of ABH for attacking a youngster who took a shine to his 15-year-old step-daughter Whitney Dean (Shona McGarty). When he's released from prison, however, his intentions towards her are not all they seem and it becomes evident that he is sexually abusing her. It soon transpires that his maltreatment of her has been going on for some time.
Bianca, however, is oblivious to everything, while Whitney is forced to deal with her situation in silence.
Speaking of his role, Coghill said: "This is the most challenging role I have had to play. But I hope by EastEnders tackling the sensitive issue of child abuse it can raise awareness."
His other acting credits include Holby Blue, Doctors, Hotel Babylon and The Bill.
Earlier this year, Maggie O'Neill - known for her role as Sheila Jackson in Shameless - also joined the Walford-based soap as Branning sibling, Suzy.
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